My install took about 25 hrs and I knew very little beyond basic repair/maintenance of engines. Installing it helped me learn alot and become more confident.
Sorry to hear about your compressor going. I know my heart would sink if I ever heard that. The 25,000+ report made me feel better though, and it definately sounds like your shop employs less-than-average mechanics. Hope everything works out for you, I've got 5,000+ and it's still going strong.
As a side note, the manual also says allow car to idle until it reaches full normal operating temperature. I force myself to wait till at least 1/4 temp and don't get on it till it's at full operating temp. I'm not saying this caused it, but it helps to have the oil circulated and everything at the right temp before you put stress on it (hammer the accelerator).
